An analysis of the service sector in five countries (France, Germany, Japan, Sweden, and the United States) was made through synthesis of earlier research on work patterns in the countries. Some of the findings and issues discovered concerned the following: (1) the heterogeneity of the service sector; (2) the progress of part-time work; (3) contracting out by industries; (4) blurring of traditional borders between sectors and also within the service sector itself; (5) regional distribution of services and its impact on employment; (6) the relationship of smaller forms to economic growth; (7) the need for balance in education between adaptable skills and professional work experience; (8) increased internationalization and rationalization, which give priority to product development, marketing, and sales; (9) a general trend toward raising skill levels; (10) "polyvalence"--a broad range of skills needed for midlevel workers; (11) a changing relationship between internal and external markets; (12) increased role of education for success; and (13) substantial growth of female employment. (KC)